The duo, deeply embedded in Thailand’s activist circles, faced the court’s judgment for a lese-majeste offence during a rally in Phu Khieo district. The court handed Jatupat, often referred to by his moniker “Pai Dao Din,” a three-year prison sentence, marking his second offence. Attapon, or “Khru Yai” among activist peers, received a two-year sentence. This was his first brush with such severe charges. The sentencing was confirmed by Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR), which has continuously monitored and reported on such cases. While other charges against them were dropped, the severity of the lese-majeste convictions remained.
Before the court’s decision, the activists’ legal team had applied for bail, a request still pending with the Court of Appeal Region 3 in Nakhon Ratchasima as of late Friday afternoon. If bail is denied, the outlook for both Jatupat and Attapon is bleak, as they would be immediately transferred to Phu Khieo prison.
The charges against Jatupat and Attapon date back to a significant rally on February 1, 2011, at Phu Khieo School and the local police station. During the protest, they demanded police apologies for allegedly threatening students at their homes. Their call for the reform of the monarchy, an undeniably bold stance in a country with strict lese-majeste laws, was the focal point of the accusations. Prosecutors also pointed out the rally’s lack of official permission and highlighted concerns over protesters not wearing masks despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Another activist, Panupong “Mike” Jadnok, faced similar charges in the case. However, his trial has been postponed indefinitely as he has fled to New Zealand, where he plans to seek amnesty. The court has since issued an arrest warrant for him, indicating the persistent reach of Thai authorities in political cases.
This case adds to the growing tally of political prosecutions in Thailand. According to data from TLHR, as of August 31 this year, a staggering 1,956 individuals have faced legal action for their political involvement and expressions since the inception of the Free Youth protests in July 2020. Among these, at least 273 have faced lese-majeste charges under Section 112, while 152 have been charged with sedition under Section 116.
The scene at the Phu Khieo Provincial Court on Friday was emblematic of the broader struggles faced by many activists in Thailand. The heart gesture shared by Jatupat and Attapon in front of the courthouse was more than a mere display of unity; it was a symbol of their unwavering resolve and the deep emotional connection they share with their cause and their supporters.
Jatupat’s longer sentence, linked to his previous conviction, underscores the stringent approach taken by Thai courts in reoffending cases. Meanwhile, Attapon’s two-year sentence highlights the severity of the initial offence in the eyes of the judiciary.
The story of Jatupat and Attapon is a sobering reminder of the high stakes in political activism within Thailand. As their supporters and lawyers await the decision from the Court of Appeal Region 3, the future remains uncertain. However, what is certain is the enduring spirit of these and many other activists who continue to challenge the boundaries of political discourse in the country.
In an era marked by political turbulence and calls for greater freedoms, the trials and tribulations of figures like Jatupat and Attapon stand as a testament to the ongoing struggle for democratic expression. Their narratives, intertwined with Thailand’s complex political landscape, evoke both a sense of solemn reflection and a hopeful anticipation for change.
I’m genuinely shocked at how strict the lese-majeste law is in Thailand. I understand the need to protect the monarchy, but three years for a peaceful protest seems extreme!
If you understand Thai culture, you’d know why the monarchy is such a sensitive issue. It’s about maintaining respect and order.
Respect is one thing, but curbing free speech and handing out harsh sentences is draconian. There’s a fine line between respect and oppression.
Sarah, have you seen the political turmoil in Thailand? It’s necessary to have tough laws to keep the peace.
Bobby76, peace that comes from fear isn’t true peace. These draconian laws could do more harm than good in the long run.
How brave of Jatupat and Attapon to stand up for what they believe in despite the harsh penalties. They’re true heroes.
Heroism doesn’t always mean breaking the law. Plenty of people respect the monarchy and don’t feel oppressed.
Mike, I agree. Their courage is inspiring, and it’s sad to see the price they have to pay for their activism.
Thanks, Callie. Standing up to such an entrenched system takes immense courage. They’re setting an example for future generations.
The laws are there for a reason. If you don’t agree with them, work to change them through legal means, not by protesting and breaking the law.
Jayden, often the legal systems themselves are set up to prevent such changes. Protests are sometimes the only way to bring attention to unjust laws.
Jayden is missing the point; the protesters are trying to change these outdated laws. Sometimes you have to break the rules to change them.
It’s outrageous that protesting peacefully can land you in jail for years. This is a gross violation of human rights.
I feel the same, Anna. The international community should pressure Thailand to reform these archaic laws.
Anna, you should respect the sovereignty of a nation and its laws. Not every country follows the same principles.
Leo T., respecting sovereignty doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to human rights abuses. There needs to be a balance.
What happened to Panupong ‘Mike’ Jadnok is another example of the extreme lengths activists go to for their cause. Fleeing to New Zealand is a serious step.
Gary, it shows the desperation many feel. Seeking asylum abroad indicates how unsafe they truly are.
Thailand’s future looks grim if it continues down this path. More young activists will either be jailed or forced to flee.
Ravi, I’m hopeful that international pressure might lead to some reforms. Change is slow, but it has to start somewhere.
I wonder why such a harsh stand is taken against activists. Are they seen as a real threat to the monarchy?
Juanita, any call for reform is seen as a threat in highly conservative societies. It challenges the status quo.
These harsh sentences are a stark reminder that many parts of the world still lack basic freedoms we take for granted.
It’s uplifting to see the activists’ defiance despite the heavy consequences. Their spirit won’t be easily quashed.
Implementing reforms while maintaining respect for traditions is a delicate balance. Both sides have valid points.
Jatupat and Attapon’s plight is heartbreaking. It really puts into perspective the privileges we enjoy in democratic countries.
We need to pay attention to such cases worldwide. Suppressing dissent is a slippery slope to authoritarianism.
Do these laws actually achieve their intended purpose, or do they just create more martyrs for the cause?
I believe in standing up for what you believe in, but breaking the law inevitably has consequences. The activists knew what they were getting into.
Shane, sometimes laws are unjust, and disobedience is a necessary step to instigate change.